May 13, 2014 AT 1:30 pm

Coding Quickly Becoming a Core Subject #makereducation

The New York Times’ Matt Richtel published a piece about how coding is making its way into mainstream academics thanks to programs like Code.org’s Hour of Code initiative. Richtel talks about how the rate at which coding has established itself as an indispensable part of the curriculum is remarkable:

It is a stark change for computer science, which for decades was treated like a stepchild, equated with trade classes like wood shop. But smartphones and apps are ubiquitous now, and engineering careers are hot. To many parents — particularly ones here in the heart of the technology corridor — coding looks less like an extracurricular activity and more like a basic life skill, one that might someday lead to a great job or even instant riches.

The spread of coding instruction, while still nascent, is “unprecedented — there’s never been a move this fast in education,” said Elliot Soloway, a professor of education and computer science at the University of Michigan. He sees it as very positive, potentially inspiring students to develop a new passion, perhaps the way that teaching frog dissection may inspire future surgeons and biologists.

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